The Operation

This surgery may involve one or both ears with correction to specific areas such as the upper or lower ear (pole) or the entire ear. Otoplasty is usually performed as an outpatient procedure under a general anaesthetic for children, and either local or general anaesthetic in teenagers and adults. The procedure takes approximately one hour depending on the extent and difficulty of the correction.

The Surgery

Mr Masters will mark out the areas of concern previously discussed in detail at the pre-operative consultations. Local anaesthetic is injected to minimize bleeding as well as to help with the pain management post-operatively.

The most common technique involves incisions made at the back of the ear. Cartilage may be removed or re-shaped and the cartilage is then secured to its new position to bring the ear closer to the head. The incision is closed with dissolving sutures. A compression dressing will be applied for between five and ten days.